
Par La, recommended for drivers with strong nerves
China, asia
92.8 km
5,578 m
moderate
Year-round
Okay, adventure seekers, listen up! Par La, also known as Yu La, is calling your name! This insane mountain pass sits way up high in the Tibet Autonomous Region of China, clocking in at a staggering 18,300 feet above sea level. Seriously, you'll feel like you're on top of the world!
This isn't your average Sunday drive, though. The Zhonglong Highway is completely unpaved and stretches for about 58 miles from the G219 toward Buduoxiang. We're talking serious off-road vibes! Keep your eyes on the road (if you dare!), because this climb is a real oxygen-sucking, mountainous adventure.
Fair warning: you'll probably only be able to tackle this beast in the summer. And don't expect any fancy amenities up there – electricity, medical help, and western toilets are about as common as unicorns. But hey, who needs those when you've got views that'll blow your mind?
Where is it?
Par La, recommended for drivers with strong nerves is located in China (asia). Coordinates: 36.7623, 101.5791
Road Details
- Country
- China
- Continent
- asia
- Length
- 92.8 km
- Max Elevation
- 5,578 m
- Difficulty
- moderate
- Coordinates
- 36.7623, 101.5791
Related Roads in asia
hardIs the Road to Lasdana Paved?
🇵🇰 Pakistan
Okay, adventure seekers, listen up! If you're headed to the north-eastern part of Rawalakot in Azad Kashmir's Poonch District, you NEED to experience the Lasdana - Mahmood Gali Road. This 20.8 km (12.92 miles) stretch climbs to a pretty decent elevation, revealing incredible scenery. The road *used* to be paved, but let's just say it's seen better days – expect a bumpy ride! You can tackle it in a regular car or even an RV, but be warned: it's twisty-turny with lots of blind corners, so keep your eyes peeled. There are some seriously steep sections too. You'll be rewarded with amazing views at the top! Lasdana is gorgeous, making it a major attraction. But driving here, especially when it's raining or getting dark, can be tricky. Winter brings rapidly changing conditions – think snow, ice, fog, and rain – making things even more exciting (or terrifying, depending on your perspective!). Landslides are also a risk after heavy rain, so be prepared for possible road closures. Keep an eye on the weather! It's also wise to be aware of the general risk of terrorism, civil unrest, sectarian violence, and kidnapping in the region. Stay informed and check local conditions before you go!
easyChalus Road is a busy scenic drive in Iran
🇮🇷 Iran
Okay, picture this: you're in Iran, just outside Tehran in Chalus, ready to hit Road 59, aka the Chalus Road. This isn't just any road; it's *the* road – super popular and packed with history. Built back in 1933, it was a total engineering marvel for its time, carving through terrain that seemed impossible. Get ready for a visual feast! One minute you're surrounded by lush greenery, the next you're staring at snow-capped peaks and rugged mountains in the north. The road's usually open year-round, but winter can throw a curveball with snow closures. You'll climb into the Alborz Mountains, reaching a staggering 2,700 meters (8,858 feet!), near the legendary Kandovan Tunnel. This tunnel, built in the late 30s, chops a good 13 kilometers off the journey! The Chalus Road, also known as the Kandovan Road, stretches for 160 km (100 miles) from Karaj to Chaloos. It's all paved, but don't get complacent – there are tons of tunnels and hairpin turns. Newbies, take note: this isn't a beginner's joyride! Even though the scenery is breathtaking, speed demons should beware – it's narrow and mountainous, so keep your wits about you. Up in northern Iran, the views are absolutely insane. Waterfalls, springs, and historical sites dot the landscape. It's more than just a road; it's a tourist hotspot! If you're heading north, make sure to include it in your itinerary. Coming from Karaj, you'll start by winding through jagged cliffs, then dive into ancient beech forests teeming with wildlife like wolves, lynxes, and maybe even a bear! And the grand finale? A first glimpse of the Caspian Sea on the horizon.
extremeFairy Meadows Road is the 2nd deadliest highway in the world
🇵🇰 Pakistan
Okay, thrill-seekers, listen up! If you're heading to Nanga Parbat in Pakistan, get ready for the Fairy Meadows Road – it's not for the faint of heart! This high-altitude track clocks in as seriously scary, thanks to its narrow, unstable mountain roads. We're talking a "fear factor" of 9 out of 10! Think treacherous switchbacks, sheer drops, and enough adrenaline to last a lifetime. The scenery? Absolutely breathtaking, but you'll need to keep your eyes on the road...and maybe say a little prayer. Altitude, lack of safety barriers, local driving styles, vehicle conditions, road surfaces, and weather can all play a part in making this a real white-knuckle ride.
hardPhatarian Gali, a winding road only for experienced drivers
🇮🇳 India
Okay, adventure-seekers, listen up! Phatarian Gali in Jammu and Kashmir is calling your name. This mountain pass sits way up high at 2,575 meters (8,448 feet), and getting there is one wild ride! We're talking 122 km (75 miles) of pure driving bliss (and maybe a little bit of terror for some!). Picture this: you're winding your way from Ramban to Baddar, tackling turn after turn, with hairpin bends galore. Seriously, they just keep coming! Luckily, the road isn't crazy steep, averaging only a 4.6% gradient, so your trusty car or RV should be able to handle it. Pro tip: stick to daylight hours for this drive; night driving is not advised. And if you're not a fan of heights, maybe focus on the road ahead because the drop-offs are pretty intense. But hey, that's what makes it an adventure, right? Prepare for unbelievable views and an unforgettable experience!